The Alabama State Hornets have built a proud legacy in NCAA sports, excelling in both Alabama State Hornets basketball and Alabama State Hornets football. Competing in the SWAC, the Hornets have become known for their strong athletic tradition, remarkable achievements, and commitment to excellence both on the field and in the classroom.
College Sports Established
1867
Location
Montgomery, Alabama
College Name
Alabama State University
Collegiate History
1982 - Present / NCAA Division I
Conference History
1982 - Present / Southwestern Athletic Conference
Nickname
Hornets - The Alabama State Hornets are one of the most storied teams in NCAA history. From their iconic mascot, Big Al, to their many championship wins, they have been a staple in college sports for decades. But do you know where the nickname “Hornets” came from?
Alabama State Hornets Origin
It all started in 1921 when then-President Dr. William Hooper Councill wanted to give his school an identity that would stand out from its competitors and make it recognizable nationwide. He decided on "Hornets," as he believed it indicated courage and strength—two qualities among successful athletes.
The name stuck with fans over time and eventually became synonymous with Alabama State Athletics; however, there is more behind this unique moniker than meets the eye! It turns out that during World War I, there were two battalions of soldiers stationed at Camp Sheridan near Montgomery: The First Battalion Mississippi Regiment (nicknamed “the Hornets”) and The Fifth Battalion Tennessee Regiment (nicknamed “the Volunteers). Both units served bravely overseas, but upon returning home, they received different receptions based on which state they hailed from - hence why Dr. Councill chose "Hornets" as a symbol for his institution's athletic teams!
Today we still honor those who fought so bravely by cheering on our beloved Hornet team every game day – whether we win or lose – because no matter what happens, we will always be proud to call ourselves part of such a fantastic legacy!
NCAA Championships
Baseball 0
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 0
Football 0
Soccer 0
- 1926
- 1957
- 2001
- 2011
-
Hornets Baseball Program’s First Season
The program’s first season was in 1926, and it has been a member of the NCAA Division I Southwestern Athletic Conference since the start of the 1983 season. Its home venue is the Wheeler–Watkins Baseball Complex, located on Alabama State’s campus. José Vázquez is the team’s head coach starting in the 2017 season. The program has appeared in 2 NCAA ... -
Hornets notable Baseball Player Harvey Alfred Branch
Harvey Alfred Branch (born February 8, 1939) is an American former professional baseball player. He was a left-handed pitcher who had a seven-year career in minor league baseball, but whose Major League tenure consisted of a single game in the uniform of the St. Louis Cardinals on September 18, 1962. -
Hornets Basketball Team Appearance in NCAA
The Hornets have appeared in the NCAA tournament four times. Their record is 0–4. First time appearance was in 2001 and last time was in 2011 -
New Stadium for Hornets Football Games
Hornet Stadium serves as the facility for Alabama State football games and practices. The 120-yard field turf playing field provides training to ASU football in all weather conditions. In June 2011, construction on the Houston Markham Football Complex was completed. The two-story, 30,000-square-foot facility serves as the new home of the football program.
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
Alabama State Hornets History
The Alabama State Hornets have built one of the richest traditions in NCAA sports, marked by their fierce rivalry with the Alabama A&M Bulldogs. Founded in 1867, Alabama State University began competing in athletics during the early 1900s, joining the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) in 1932. Since then, the Alabama State Hornets football and Alabama State Hornets basketball programs have become cornerstones of HBCU athletics.
The Alabama State Hornets football program has achieved notable success, earning multiple SWAC championships and producing legendary players who went on to professional careers. Known for their strength, speed, and determination, the Hornets have made several postseason appearances and are recognized for their balanced offensive and defensive play throughout their long history.
In addition to football, Alabama State Hornets basketball has also gained national attention. The men’s basketball team has secured several SWAC Tournament titles and NCAA Tournament appearances. Their women’s basketball team has maintained consistent success as well, becoming a powerhouse in the conference with multiple championship runs and strong regular-season performances.
Hornets Achievements
Beyond athletics, the Alabama State Hornets have maintained a strong academic foundation, emphasizing excellence both on and off the field. Many Hornet athletes have earned Academic All-American honors, representing the university with pride and discipline.
In recent years, both the Alabama State Hornets football and Alabama State Hornets basketball programs have continued to rise, showcasing top-tier talent and competitive spirit across the NCAA. With a legacy built on perseverance, sportsmanship, and tradition, Alabama State remains a symbol of pride in collegiate athletics and HBCU excellence.
